From The White House Blog: President Obama sends out good wishes for the new year.

Good evening. Tonight, as Americans across the country gather with family and friends, I want to wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year.

This is always a hopeful time, as we celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another. And while 2009 was difficult for many Americans, we must also look back on this year with the knowledge that brighter days are ahead of us – that although our challenges are great, each of us has the courage and determination to rise up and meet them.

It is that spirit that has kept the American Dream alive for generations, and it is that spirit that will keep it alive for generations to come. Happy New Year, everyone.

The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, is at his singing and dancing best in the wildly entertaining and unforgettable 1983 music video “Thriller” (also released as a film). Created with incredible imagination and energy that leaps off the screen, “Thriller” was directed by John Landis and runs about 14 minutes. It was produced in conjunction with Jackson’s groundbreaking “Thriller” album, considered the best selling album ever.

Michael Jackson, co-star Ola Ray, and the undead in the “Thriller” video (1983)

I’ve seen the “Thriller” video a gillion times and have no doubt that I will watch it again and again. There is nothing like this music video and it’s another example of the late singer’s skill and brilliance as an entertainer.

Today it was announced “Thriller” is one of 25 films selected for preservation in the 2009 National Film Registry by the Library of Congress “as cultural, artistic and/or historical treasures for generations to come.” That brings the total number of films in the registry to 525. These films are not considered the best of cinema, but the most significant and enduring works.

In a news release, the Librarian of Congress James H. Billington explained: “Established by Congress in 1989, the National Film Registry spotlights the importance of protecting America’s matchless film heritage and cinematic creativity.”

This year, the films span the period of 1911 to 1995 and include a variety of genres. Besides “Thriller,” my favorites are, “Dog Day Afternoon” (1975), ”The Mark of Zorro” (1940), and “Pillow Talk” (1959).  Below is the complete list.

2009 National Film Registry

Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Director Sidney Lumet balances suspense, violence and humor in Frank Pierson’s Oscar-winning adaptation of a true-life bank robbery turned media circus. Al Pacino is the engaging Sonny, a smart yet self-destructive Brooklyn tough guy whose plan to rob the local bank to pay for his lover’s sex change goes awry. Lumet artfully conducts his talented cast through machinations that twist and turn from the political to the personal, and inevitably lead to a downward spiral played out before an audience of millions.

The Exiles (1961)

Released nearly 48 years ago, “The Exiles” remains one of the few non-stereotypical films that honestly depict Native Americans. With the perspective of a true outsider, filmmaker Kent MacKenzie captures the raw essence of a group of 20-something Native Americans who left reservation life in the 1950s to live among the decayed Victorian mansions of Los Angeles’ Bunker Hill district. MacKenzie’s day-in-the-life narrative pieces together interviews that allow the people in his film to tell their own stories without ascribing artificial sentimentality.

Heroes All (1920)

The Red Cross Bureau of Pictures produced more than 100 films, including “Heroes All,” from 1917-1921, which are invaluable historical and visual records of the era with footage from World War I and its aftermath. “Heroes All” examines returning wounded WWI veterans and their treatment at Walter Reed Hospital, along with visits to iconic Washington, D.C., landmarks. Several Red Cross cinematographers achieved notable film careers, including Ernest Schoedsack and A. Farciot Edouart.

Hot Dogs for Gauguin (1972)

This hilarious New York University student film (with a cast including Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman in her film debut) was written and directed by Martin Brest who later went on to direct “Beverly Hills Cop,” “Scent of a Woman” and “Meet Joe Black.” In the film, DeVito plays a down-on-his-luck photographer determined to capture visual magic and fame. He concocts an intricate plot to blow up the Statue of Liberty and sets his camera to record the exact moment of its destruction.

The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957)

This sci-fi classic about a man who starts to shrink after being exposed to a strange cloud while on vacation is notable for its intelligent script and imaginative special effects. Jack Arnold’s sparse direction and Richard Matheson’s poignant script allow the tension to build naturally in a world where a house cat and common spider become the ultimate threat to existence and leave an indelible mark on the audience’s consciousness.

Jezebel (1938)

Bette Davis won her second Academy Award for this William Wyler-directed classic. Cast to perfection as a tempestuous southern belle, Davis’ head-strong heroine must eventually learn self-sacrifice in order to save the man she loves. Despite its melodramatic underpinnings, the film endures because of Davis’ flawless performance and for its examination of both the American South and women’s societal roles. The movie co-stars Henry Fonda and Fay Bainter, who also won an Oscar for her work.

The Jungle (1967)

With the guidance of Temple University social worker Harold Haskins, a group of African-American teenage boys in Philadelphia made this hybrid documentary/dramatization of their lives in the 12th and Oxford Street gang. Shot in an original and natural style, this 22-minute film was recognized with festival awards, but was never theatrically released. In 1968, Churchill Films distributed the film in 16mm for the educational market. The production led several of the gang members to earn high school and college degrees.

The Lead Shoes (1949)

“The Lead Shoes” is a dreamlike trance showing the unconscious acts of a disturbed mind through a distorted lens and other abstract visual techniques (such as reverse and stop motion). “Narrative succumbs to the comic devices of inconsequence and illogic,” said writer and independent filmmaker Sidney Peterson of his film. Peterson is considered the father of San Francisco avant-garde cinema.

Little Nemo (1911)

This classic work, a mix of live action and animation, was adapted from Winsor McCay’s famed 1905 comic strip “Little Nemo in Slumberland.” Its fluidity, graphics and story-telling was light years beyond other films made during that time. A seminal figure in both animation and comic art, McCay profoundly influenced many generations of future animators, including Walt Disney.

Mabel’s Blunder (1914)

Mabel Normand, who wrote, directed and starred in “Mabel’s Blunder,” was the most successful of the early silent screen comediennes. The film tells the tale of a young woman who is secretly engaged to the boss’ son. When a new employee catches the young man’s eye, a jealous Mabel dresses up as a chauffeur to spy on them, which leads to a series of mistaken identities. The film showcases Normand’s spontaneous and intuitive playfulness and her ability to be both romantically appealing and boisterously funny.

The Mark of Zorro (1940)

Under Rouben Mamoulian’s inventive direction, Tyrone Power plays Don Diego, son of a 19th-century Los Angeles governor who has been unseated by a mercenary despot and his sadistic captain, portrayed by Basil Rathbone. Convincingly foppish by day, Don Diego conceals his heroic alter-ego to avenge his father and the terrorized citizenry, carving his signature “Z” with his trusty sword as he goes. Mamoulian cleverly cuts in and out of scenes to heighten the drama and action as the film crescendos to a thrilling duel between Rathbone and Power.

Mrs. Miniver (1942)

This remarkably touching wartime melodrama pictorializes the classic British stiff upper lip and the courage of a middle-class English family (headed by Greer Garson and Walter Pidgeon) amid the chaos of air raids and family loss. The film’s iconic tribute to the sacrifices on the home front, as movingly directed by William Wyler, did much to rally America’s support for its British allies. “Mrs. Miniver” won six Oscars including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actress.

The Muppet Movie (1979)

Muppet creators Jim Henson and Frank Oz immersed their characters into a well-crafted combination of musical comedy and fantasy adventure. Kermit the Frog leads TV series regulars Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Ralph and Animal on a road trip to Hollywood where they encounter numerous characters played by such actors as Steve Martin, Mel Brooks and Charles Durning.

Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)

Disdained as “Spaghetti Westerns” when they first appeared in American movie theaters, the best of these films, such as “Once Upon a Time in the West,” are now recognized as among the greatest achievements of the Western movie genre. Director Sergio Leone’s operatic visual homage to the American Western legend is a chilling tale of vengeance set against the backdrop of the coming of the railroad. Ennio Morricone’s magnificent score (especially the elegiac “Jill’s Theme”) is likewise recognized for its brilliance.

Pillow Talk (1959 )

The first film to co-star Doris Day and Rock Hudson, “Pillow Talk” remains one of the screen’s most definitive, influential and timeless romantic comedies. Sweet and sophisticated, it is a time capsule of 1950s America. Two single New Yorkers develop an anonymous, antagonistic relationship by sharing a telephone “party line.” Both romance and complications ensue when they finally meet in person. The film is a perfect showcase for its two charismatic stars, especially the effervescent Day who demonstrates why she was both America’s Sweetheart and one of cinema’s finest comediennes.

Precious Images (1986)

Chuck Workman’s legendary compilation film to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Directors Guild of America is also a dazzling celebration of the first near-century of American cinema. The pioneer of rapid-fire film history montages, “Precious Images” contains in the space of seven short minutes nearly 500 clips from classic films spanning the years 1903-1985. It became the most influential and widely shown short film in history. Workman is known for creating the montages shown during the annual Academy Awards broadcast.

Quasi at the Quackadero (1975)

“Quasi at the Quackadero” has earned the term “unique.” Once described as a “mixture of 1930s Van Beuren cartoons and 1960s R. Crumb comics with a dash of Sam Flax,” and a descendent of the “Depression-era funny animal cartoon,” Sally Cruikshank’s wildly imaginative tale of odd creatures visiting a psychedelic amusement park careens creatively from strange to truly wacky scenes. It became a favorite of the Midnight Movie circuit in the 1970s. Cruikshank later created animation sequences for “Sesame Street,” the 1986 film “Ruthless People” and the “Cartoon Land” sequence in the 1983 film “Twilight Zone: The Movie.”

The Red Book (1994)

Renowned experimental filmmaker and theater/installation artist Janie Geiser’s work is known for its ambiguity, explorations of memory and emotional states and exceptional design. She describes “The Red Book” as “an elliptical, pictographic animated film that uses flat, painted figures and collage elements in both two and three dimensional settings to explore the realms of memory, language and identity from the point of view of a woman amnesiac.” 

The Revenge of Pancho Villa (1930-36)

This extraordinary compilation film was made by the Padilla family in El Paso, Texas, from dozens of fact-based and fictional films about Pancho Villa. The films were stitched together with original bilingual title cards and dramatic reenactments of Villa’s assassination were added to the revised print. “The Revenge of Pancho Villa” provides stirring evidence of a vital Mexican-American film presence during the 1910-30s.

Scratch and Crow (1995)

Helen Hill’s student film was made at the California Institute of the Arts. Consistent with the short films she made from age 11 until her death at 36, this animated short work is filled with vivid color and a light sense of humor. It is also a poetic and spiritual homage to animals and the human soul.

Stark Love (1927)

A maverick production in both design and concept, “Stark Love” is a beautifully photographed mix of lyrical anthropology and action melodrama from director Karl Brown. “Man is absolute ruler. Woman is working slave.” Such are the rigid attitudes framing this tale of a country boy’s beliefs about chivalry that lead him to try to escape a brutal father with the girl he loves. “Stark Love,” cast exclusively with amateur actors and filmed entirely in the Great Smoky Mountains, is an illuminating portrayal of the Appalachian people.

The Story of G.I. Joe (1945)

William Wellman’s gritty portrayal of the realities of war was based on the newspaper columns of war correspondent Ernie Pyle, played with understated realism by Burgess Meredith. In the film, Pyle follows a small group of ordinary infantrymen from North Africa into Italy, and his observations reflect the full gamut of human emotion that war invokes while trying to make sense of the inhuman randomness of war’s destruction.

A Study in Reds (1932)

This polished amateur film by Miriam Bennett spoofs women’s clubs and the Soviet menace in the 1930s. While listening to a tedious lecture on the Soviet threat, Wisconsin Dells’ Tuesday Club members fall asleep and find themselves laboring in an all-women collective in Russia under the unflinching eye of the Soviet special police.

Thriller (1983)

The most famous music video of all time, “Thriller” caused such a buzz that it was also released theatrically in 35mm. As a follow-up to his smash 1982 album and single, Michael Jackson revolutionized the music industry with this lavish and expensive production. Acclaimed filmmaker John Landis (“Animal House” and “Blues Brothers”) directed and co-wrote the video.

Under Western Stars (1938)

“Under Western Stars” turned Roy Rogers into a movie star. In the film, Rogers plays a populist cowboy/congressman elected to champion for small ranchers’ water rights during the Dust Bowl. He and his golden palomino Trigger appeared in nearly 100 films and a long-running television series. Known as “King of the Cowboys,” the popular Rogers had an enormous impact on American audiences. Rogers was perceived as the almost perfect embodiment of what a cowboy should be in appearance, values, good manners and chivalrous behavior.

Photo: Greg Harbaugh/AMPAS — Rick Rosas and Bradley Ottmanns of PricewaterhouseCoopers give the nomination ballots a final check before sending them off to be mailed. (12/28/09)

The Oscar race is officially on. Yesterday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences sent out 5,777 nomination ballots to its voting members. Before being carted off to the Beverly Hills post office, the ballots went through a meticulous verification process by staff members of the accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers. They were counted, sorted, and “… numbered to guarantee that each one is addressed to the appropriate Academy voter,” according to the official press release.

These ballots are due back at PricewaterhouseCoopers by 5 p.m. Saturday, January 23, 2010. The nominees for the 82nd Academy Awards will be announced at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 2, 2010. The famous golden Oscar statutes will be handed out to the winners at the 82nd Academy Awards ceremony Sunday, March 7, 2010 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood.  

So how are the nomination ballots counted? The Wrap has a nice article on the rather complicated process, which reportedly uses something called the “preferential system.” No wonder they need an accounting firm to handle the ballot count. Very interesting reading.

FROM THE WHITE HOUSE BLOG: President Barack Obama’s address from earlier today.

Good morning, everybody. I wanted to take just a few minutes to update the American people on the attempted terrorist attack that occurred on Christmas Day and the steps we’re taking to ensure the safety and security of the country.

The investigation’s ongoing. And I spoke again this morning with Attorney General Eric Holder, the secretary of homeland security, Janet Napolitano, and my counterterrorism and homeland security adviser, John Brennan. I asked them to keep — continue monitoring the situation to keep the American people and members of Congress informed.

Here’s what we know so far: On Christmas Day, Northwest Airlines Flight 253 was en route from Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Detroit. As the plane made its final approach to Detroit Metropolitan Airport, a passenger allegedly tried to ignite an explosive device on his body, setting off a fire.

Thanks to the quick and heroic actions of passengers and crew, the suspect was immediately subdued, the fire was put out, and the plane landed safely. The suspect is now in custody and has been charged with attempting to destroy an aircraft.

A full investigation has been launched into this attempted act of terrorism, and we will not rest until we find all who were involved and hold them accountable.

Now, this was a serious reminder of the dangers that we face and the nature of those who threaten our homeland. Had the suspect succeeded in bringing down that plane, it could have killed nearly 300 passengers and crew, innocent civilians preparing to celebrate the holidays with their families and friends.

The American people should be assured that we are doing everything in our power to keep you and your family safe and secure during this busy holiday season.

Since I was first notified of this incident, I’ve ordered the following actions to be taken to protect the American people and to secure air travel.

First, I directed that we take immediate steps to ensure the safety of the traveling public. We made sure that all flights still in the air were secure and could land safely. We immediately enhanced screening and security procedures for all flights, domestic and international. We added federal air marshals to flights entering and leaving the United States. And we’re working closely in this country, federal, state and local law enforcement, with our international partners.

Second, I’ve ordered two important reviews, because it’s absolutely critical that we learn from this incident and take the necessary measures to prevent future acts of terrorism.

The first review involves our watch list system, which our government has had in place for many years to identify known and suspected terrorists so that we can prevent their entry into the United States. Apparently the suspect in the Christmas incident was in this system, but not on a watch list, such as the so-called no-fly list. So I have ordered a thorough review, not only of how information related to the subject was handled, but of the overall watch list system and how it can be strengthened.

The second review will examine all screening policies, technologies and procedures related to air travel. We need to determine just how the suspect was able to bring dangerous explosives aboard an aircraft and what additional steps we can take to thwart future attacks.

Third, I’ve directed my national security team to keep up the pressure on those who would attack our country. We do not yet have all the answers about this latest attempt, but those who would slaughter innocent men, women and children must know that the United States will more — do more than simply strengthen our defenses. We will continue to use every element of our national power to disrupt, to dismantle and defeat the violent extremists who threaten us, whether they are from Afghanistan or Pakistan, Yemen or Somalia, or anywhere where they are plotting attacks against the U.S. homeland.

Finally, the American people should remain vigilant, but also be confident. Those plotting against us seek not only to undermine our security, but also the open society and the values that we cherish as Americans. This incident, like several that have preceded it, demonstrates that an alert and courageous citizenry are far more resilient than an isolated extremist.

As a nation, we will do everything in our power to protect our country. As Americans, we will never give in to fear or division. We will be guided by our hopes, our unity, and our deeply held values. That’s who we are as Americans; that’s what our brave men and women in uniform are standing up for as they spend the holidays in harm’s way. And we will continue to do everything that we can to keep America safe in the new year and beyond.

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New stats show holiday shoppers spent more this season than last

Some Christmas cheer for retailers and good news for the economy today. Consumer spending during the period of November first through Christmas Eve rose 3.6 percent. That’s a heck of a lot better than what happened last year, when fears of economic disaster had shoppers holding tight to their money and thus sales plunged 2.3 percent, according to a report on Reuters.

For more on those earlier figures, analysts’ reaction to them, and a look at some of the retail winners and losers click here for the full story.

 The money just keeps rolling in for the Hollywood Studios

Is there a recession in Tinseltown? You wouldn’t know it by the way the big studios are making the green at the Box Office. The Christmas weekend turned out to be the best ever, bringing in $270 million, up 34 percent over last year, according to Box Office Mojo. Thanks to a slew of crowd pleasing flicks like “Avatar,” “Sherlock Holmes,” “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel,” and “It’s Complicated.”

The previous record for the most profitable weekend was July 18-20, 2008, when “The Dark Knight” and “Mamma Mia!” opened.

 Meanwhile, the Warner Bros. Pictures Group announced today that it reached a ninth consecutive $1 billion-plus year for the distribution of domestic and international films. Warner is projecting a domestic Box Office of $2.13 billion and foreign returns of $1.86 billion, according to The Hollywood Reporter. A whole lot of local folks are hoping see some of that studio cash get pumped into new film productions right here in the Southland, real soon, like in 2010.

UPDATED: Monday 12/28/09

Over the Christmas holiday weekend, folks bought movie tickets like they were the best bargains in town. Despite the blizzard type weather in some parts of the country and those enticing markdown deals at the malls and stores, Americans went to the movies in huge numbers. And that produced one of the best Box Office weekends ever.

James Cameron’s 3D sci-fi epic “Avatar” managed to keep a firm hold onto the number one spot for the second week in the row with an estimated $75.6 million. The blockbuster has packed screenings all week long, especially on Christmas Day. Its domestic total is now around $212 million.

Newcomer “Sherlock Holmes” came on strong and, at one point, was battling neck-and-neck with “Avatar” for the top spot. In the end, “Avatar” pulled ahead, but the Guy Ritchie directed action/crime /drama made an impressive showing in second place by raking in around $62.3 million. Based on the fictional 19th Century detective created by Arthur Conan Doyle, “Sherlock Holmes” stars Robert Downey Jr. as the brilliant sleuth and Jude Law as his faithful sidekick Dr. Watson.

In third, the debut of ”Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel” directed by Betty Thomas.The family-friendly animated flick had a buffo opening with an estimated $49 million.This is the sequel to the popular 2007 film, “Alvin and the Chipmunks.” Apparently audiences can’t get enough of the famous singing trio.

The new romantic comedy, “It’s Complicated”  scored around $22 million to land in fourth. The film is  written and directed by Nancy Meyers and stars Meryl Streep, Steve Martin, and Alec Baldwin. Streep plays a divorced woman who gets tangled up in a love triangle with her ex and a new man.

And it was a tough fight for fifth place, between the comedy/ drama “Up in the Air”  and the football drama, “The Blind Side.”  Today later numbers showed, “The Blind Side” took fifth with $11.4 million, followed by “Up in the Air” in sixth with $11.2 million.

Hollywood is gung-ho right now for film projects based on material from other mediums — particularly comics and novels. Screenwriter Suzanne Corso has written a number of unproduced scripts, but she recently hit the big time with her first novel. Corso wrote a coming-of-age story, based on personal experience, about a teenager in Brooklyn during the 1970s who falls for a local Mafioso wannabe, according to Publishers Weekly.

The novel, “Brooklyn Story” was picked up by Simon & Schuster for publication. Also, Director Penny Marshall grabbed the film rights. Some top talent has signed onto the project, among them Lorraine Bracco, Olympia Dukakis, and Armand Assante.

Also listed recently on the Publishers Weekly website, screenwriter/playwright p.g sturges sells his debut Tinseltown crime novel, “Shortcut Man,” to Scribner. The plot centers around a P.I. named Dick Henry and a case involving a Hollywood producer’s cheating wife. The writer’s father is famous Screenwriter/Director Preston Sturges (who did not spell name in all lower case letters). The father won an Academy Award for the screenplay “The Great McGinty” in 1941. He was best known for directing screwball romantic comedies like the classic,”The Lady Eve,” which starred Henry Fonda and Barbara Stanwyck (1941).

The State Department of Public Health is recommending all residents get a flu shot for the H1N1 virus as soon as possible. The so-called swine flu remains widespread in seven states, including California. Even though some indicators suggest H1N1 cases may be tapering off here, health officials fear another wave of the illness could hit after the first of the year.

As of December 19, 2009, that agency’s data reports 449 people have died from swine flu in California. In a story on the Los Angeles Times website, the Director of the State Department of Public Health, Dr. Mark Horton, claims California has received more than 12 million doses of the H1N1 vaccine: “We can now recommend that all individuals seek vaccination.”

Last week, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health boasted of a healthy supply of H1N1 vaccine in a news release and urged anyone who hadn’t got one to get a vaccination for that type of influenza. It will be interesting to see if some of this vast supply of H1N1 vaccine, being touted by health officials, will make its way to the Burbank area, making some of those flu shots easier to find. The reality is that in recent days, flu shots have been very hard to score in some parts of Burbank.

On a night like this, the stars seem to twinkle a little brighter. If you’re a believer in the magic of Christmas; well you might just hear the jingling of sleigh bells in the distant sky. 

If your thoughts turn to Jesus, perhaps you’ll look to the heavens searching for that mysterious star that proclaimed the Savior’s birth.
 
On a night like this, the stars seem to twinkle a little brighter. Peace and good tidings to all.
May you be blessed and the deepest wish of your heart come true.

Fronnie

MERRY CHRISTMAS  
 

Official White House Photo by Samantha Appleton

On November 27, 2009, First Lady Michelle Obama, daughters Sasha and Malia, welcome the arrival of the official White House Christmas tree. It’s an 18 1/2 foot Douglas-Fir and will be set up in the Blue Room of the White House.

Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson

On November 30, 2009, volunteers work on decorating the official White House Christmas tree.

Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson

On December 6, 2009, President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle smile for the cameras in front of the  beautifully decorated official White House Christmas tree. 

Want to keep your holiday calorie in-take in check, remember to go for white meat instead of dark. A decision like that can save you a few hundred calories during this holiday season of eat, drink, and be merry. The InStyle website has a nice reminder post on how you can make some sensible choices with a little extra effort.

Jackie Keller, a celebrity wellness coach for stars like Reese Witherspoon and Charlize Theron, has this suggestion for slowing down the urge to graze at the food tables:”Trick yourself into allowing the brain to kick in and make healthy choices by occupying your hands with a glass of water or wine.”

Some suggestions from the post: pick red wine instead of fancy cocktails, snack on almonds rather than cheese and crackers, and stay away from pecan pie — go for pumpkin and you’ll save more than 100 calories per average slice. If you can make some smart food choices you probably will not gain weight during the holidays. Or you can just feast now and worry about your weight in the New Year. Been there, done that. Either way, enjoy!

Media Mogul/Talk Show Superstar Oprah Winfrey is well known for her generosity. Not only does she fund numerous charity ventures, she loves to give special gifts to individuals as well. The entertainer’s list of all-time favorite gifts is on her Oprah.com website here.

Josh Groban’s Noël CD made the “O” list. Since its release in 2007, this collection of popular Christmas tunes has sold over five million copies and is still selling. The price is around $14, even cheaper at places like Barnes & Noble.com.  Also, Oprah’s list includes some to-die-for cupcakes, Sarabeth’s gift sampler jam box, a Greenberg smokehouse turkey, and an assortment of literary classics like ”To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee.

A very interesting list from a woman who can buy just about anything and who has a deep appreciation for things that have a special quality. I’m pretty sure anyone who finds an Oprah gift under their Christmas tree is going to be delighted.

Official White House photo by Pete Souza — December 20, 2009

 Like millions of Americans, President Obama rolled up his sleeve for a flu shot yesterday. The Prez did not have to stand in line at a clinic or make an appointment at a doctor’s office. Obama received the H1N1 vaccine from a White House nurse. Obama got a vaccination for the seasonal flu a few weeks ago. Actually, the entire first family, except for the dog Bo, has been immunized against both flu viruses.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, we’re heading into the worst of the flu season. It can start as early as October and usually peaks in January or late winter.

Alec Baldwin bankrolls scholarship fund

Actor Alec Baldwin is in the news for a couple of reasons. Baldwin is starring in a new romantic comedy film called “It’s Complicated” with Meryl Streep and Steve Martin: due to open this week, on Christmas Day. Also, Baldwin is sharing his good fortune with some drama students at New York University.

Last week the university announced Baldwin had shelled out a million bucks for a scholarship fund, which will “…provide tuition assistance to students who demonstrate an unwavering work ethic, development of leadership skills, willingness to collaborate, the ability to tolerate risk, and the capacity to work with constructive criticism. Special consideration will be given to students from economically disadvantaged families or who are the first in their families to attend a college or university.”

According to Philanthropy News Digest, starting next year, tuition from the Baldwin scholarship fund will be handed out to students enrolled in the Tish School of Arts, the actor’s alma mater.

Avatar scores at the Box Office

Writer/Director James Cameron’s very expensive 3D epic film “Avatar” grabbed an estimated $73 million on its debut weekend at the domestic Box Office.The sci-fi adventure set on a distant planet was supposed to do even better. Some are blaming that major snowstorm back east for “Avatar” not raking in even more ticket sales in the U.S.  “Avatar” now holds bragging rights to the title of the number one movie in the country.

In second place, last week’s top flick the Disney animation, “The Princess and the Frog” with around $12.2 million.The still popular football drama, “The Blind Side” came in third with about $10 million.  For more on the best performing movies this weekend, check out this story on The Hollywood Reporter website.

Shoppers are expected to flood stores and malls today

On the last weekend before Christmas, there are predictions shoppers will get real serious about their gift buying. Retailers are hoping to be swamped by folks looking for bargains and last minute gift ideas. No matter how good the numbers are this weekend, some analysts say they won’t be good enough to boost the holiday season into the black for retailers.

Also, a snowstorm may slow down shoppers back east. Locally, the forecast is for sunny skies with temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s, So folks here can shop till they drop in near perfect weather.  More on the Super Weekend Shopfest here.

In Burbank flu shots hard to find

Still need to get a flu shot or two?  Now is definitely the time to get vaccinated because a lot of folks get sick with influenza this time of year. The latest news from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is that there are over 2.4 million doses of H1N1 vaccine in the county and, therefore, it is now available to everyone, not just those in the high risk groups.

Last Tuesday, in a news release posted on the county H1N1 web page, L.A. County Health Office Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding announced the policy change: “Adequate vaccine supply has arrived in Los Angeles County, allowing providers to administer H1N1 vaccine to any patient over the age of six months…”

However, there still appears to be a shortage of the H1N1 and or the seasonal vaccine in areas of Burbank. Last Tuesday, I checked at the Pavilions’ pharmacy at 1110 Alameda Avenue, and was told they ran out of the seasonal flu vaccine on Monday and NEVER received a supply of H1NI vaccine.

However, I managed to track down some available flu shots at the CVS Pharmacy Minute Clinic at 511 Hollywood Way. They had both the H1N1 and the seasonal vaccines on Wednesday, but the staff told me they did not know how long the supply would last or if it would be replenished. So you might want to add flu shots to your holiday to-do list.

Photo: FLLewis/A Writer’s Groove — Burbank Police and Fire Headquarters at 200 North Third Street.

A new interim police chief will be stepping through the doors of the Burbank Police and Fire Headquarters soon. Hopefully, he’ll bring with him the kind of new leadership that’s needed for the BPD, in the wake of lawsuits, scandal, the recent suicide of a police office, and oh yes, those investigations.

A news release appeared on the Burbank city website this afternoon announcing that law enforcement veteran Scott LaChasse has accepted the position and would be coming aboard next month.

Here’s the news release:

Burbank Selects Interim Police Chief
Scott LaChasse to assume duties January 7th

BURBANK, Calif. (December 17, 2009) – After a thorough and competitive recruitment process, a leader in Southern California law enforcement has been named Interim Police Chief for the City of Burbank. Scott LaChasse (pronounced La Ch-ahh-s) comes to the City with almost 40 years of experience.

“I look forward to creating an open dialogue with all members of the department, the community and City family,” says LaChasse. “The department is transitioning from a difficult period and there are still tough days ahead but I believe the Burbank Police Department will emerge stronger and well-prepared for the future.”

LaChasse worked for the Los Angeles Police Department from 1970-2002, most recently holding the position of Deputy Chief. In this capacity, he managed almost 1,600 personnel in South Los Angeles.

During his tenure at the LAPD, he held a variety of high-profile positions including Commanding Officer for the Criminal Intelligence, Narcotics, and Uniformed Services Groups. He also served as Assistant Commanding Officer of Operations for the Valley Bureau where he administered the activities of 1,800 personnel in the San Fernando Valley.

“Scott enjoyed a tremendous career with LAPD,” says Burbank City Manager Mike Flad. “His track record of managing complex issues and effective leadership is exactly the fit we were looking for.”

Recently, LaChasse served as Vice President of Security and Emergency Services at Paramount Pictures Corporation. He is a member of several organizations including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, FBI National Academy Associates, and California Peace Officers Association. He is currently Treasurer of the William H. Parker Los Angeles Police Foundation, member of the Homeland Security Board (Los Angeles and Orange Counties) and President of the Chief Special Agents Association. He provides instruction nationally and internationally to public officials and law enforcement officers on the command of critical incidents.

LaChasse earned his Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Los Angeles, and his Master’s in Public Administration from The University of Southern California.

A fast paced thriller is flying off store shelves this Holiday Season

 Nominees for the SAG Awards revealed today

More nominations today as the countdown to the Oscars continues. Today in West Hollywood, the magic number was three. Films “Up in the Air,” “Precious: Based on the novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire,” and “Inglourious Basterds” scored three nominations each. On the TV side, comedy “30 Rock” and dramas “Dexter,” and “The Closer” also received three nominations each. Here’s the complete list of nominees.

The 16th Annual SAG Awards will be handed out Saturday, January 23, 2010.

Photo: Pete Souza/White House —President Obama visits a Home Depot in Alexandria, Virginia on December 15, 2009.

Where does the president park when he drops by Home Depot? Not outside in the lot. No way. When President Barack Obama visited one of those home improvement stores in Virginia yesterday, his limo parked in the lumber aisle.

President Obama was there to talk up the importance of retrofitting homes with a group of small business leaders on the floor of Home Depot. Obama says retrofitting homes saves a lot of energy, money, and creates jobs.

Photo: Pete Souza/White House — President Obama sits down for a chat with some small business leaders in Alexandria, Virgina yesterday.

“In our nation’s buildings — our homes and our office consume almost 40 percent of the energy we use and contribute almost 40 percent of the carbon pollution that we produce and everybody is talking about right now in Copenhagen.  Homes built in the first half of the last century can use about 50 percent more energy than homes that are built today.  And because most of our homes and office aren’t energy-efficient, much of that energy just goes to waste, while costing our families and businesses money they can’t afford to throw away.

The simple act of retrofitting these buildings to make them more energy-efficient — installing new windows and doors, insulation, roofing, sealing leaks, modernizing heating and cooling equipment — is one of the fastest, easiest and cheapest things we can do to put Americans back to work while saving families money and reducing harmful emissions.”

More of the president’s comments on The White House Blog.

The Hollywood Foreign Press Association revealed its nominees for the 2010 Golden Globes this morning in Beverly Hills.  At the top of the list with six nominations, the movie comedy/drama “Up In The Air,” about corporate downsizing and a guy who gets paid to travel from place to place firing people.  The musical “Nine” received five nods, the new sci-fi flick “Avatar” got four, and so did the war drama “Inglourious Basterds.”

Here are the nominees in some of the top categories:

BEST MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA

AVATAR

THE HURT LOCKER

INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS

PRECIOUS: BASED ON THE NOVEL PUSH BY SAPPHIRE

UP IN THE AIR

BEST MOTION PICTURE - COMEDY OR MUSICAL

(500) DAYS OF SUMMER

THE HANGOVER

IT’S COMPLICATED

JULIE & JULIA

NINE

BEST DIRECTOR – MOTION PICTURE

KATHRYN BIGELOW
THE HURT LOCKER

JAMES CAMERON
AVATAR

CLINT EASTWOOD
INVICTUS

JASON REITMAN
UP IN THE AIR

QUENTIN TARANTINO
INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS

BEST SCREENPLAY – MOTION PICTURE

NEILL BLOMKAMP, TERRI TATCHELL
DISTRICT 9

MARK BOAL
THE HURT LOCKER

NANCY MEYERS
IT’S COMPLICATED

JASON REITMAN, SHELDON TURNER
UP IN THE AIR

QUENTIN TARANTINO
INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS

 Nice to see some females in these top categories. On the TV side, the new comedy series “Glee” led the pack with four nominations.  A complete list of the nominees here.  The 67th Annual Golden Globe  Awards ceremony is set for Sunday, January 17, 2010. Helping hand out the awards on stage, Miss Golden Globe Mavis Spencer, daughter of Golden Globe winner /actress Alfre Woodard and writer/producer Roderick Spencer.